February 17, 2007
Sgt. James Rodney Tijerina, RIP
Several hundred residents of Katy gathered today at a funeral mass to pay last respects to Marine Sgt. James Rodney Tijerina, who was killed in Iraq by enemy fire while flying as crew chief on a medical evacuation helicopter.
We did not know Sgt. Tijerina personally, but we joined the community to line the street outside Epiphany of the Lord Catholic church and provide public support to the family and friends of Sgt. Tijerina as the funeral procession passed by. Local fire departments formed a ceremonial arch from their truck ladders.
Sgt. Tijerina was a graduate of Katy High School and played on their 1997 state championship football team. One banner read "We Love our Tiger Hero.
Rest in peace.
• Katy Times - Iraqi war claims sixth native son
UPDATE:
• Houston Chronicle - Katy community says goodbye to a Marine
